What to Consider When Buying a Horse

There’s no feeling more exhilarating or daunting for a horse person than making the important decision to buy a new horse. Whether it’s your first horse or your tenth, making the decision to start or grow your equine family is a big one with a lot of considerations. The process of buying a horse might seem obvious on the surface. You just simply find a horse you like and boom, make your purchase. This is the quick way of doing it, but it’s by no means the safest or smartest way.

If you want the best experience of buying a horse, consider these things.

Make sure you fully know what you want AND don’t want in your future horse. What discipline will he be used for? Does he need to be a certain size or age? Will he require a specific level of training prior to purchase? Figure out what your perfect horse is going to be and stick with that decision.

These could include aspects like size, age, breed, mare or gelding, training level, body conditioning, injury history, overall personality, and more.

You should also come up with a concrete budget. You might be easily persuaded to a higher price if you don’t have a figure already in mind. By deciding on your price beforehand, you’ll know what you can safely invest.

Weigh the importance of getting a second opinion from someone trusted so you don’t go through the process alone. This could be a trainer, spouse, friend, veterinarian, or any horse professional. This person may notice something you haven’t and will help to keep you honest with yourself.

Always get things in writing, period. Not only is this good for your records, but also for legality should something go awry during or after the purchase.

And lastly, follow these two golden rules. Do not be afraid to keep looking and do not be afraid to say no. It might take a few test rides before you find a good fit, so don’t settle. And it could take more than one firm “no” with a pushy seller to keep you from making a bad purchase. At the end of the day, follow your gut and buy the horse that’s truly meant for you.